Digital inclusion: Making tech accessible to every community

In an increasingly digital focused world, access to technology is no longer a luxury, it’s a necessity. From applying for jobs to accessing healthcare, education, and government services, being connected can determine someone’s ability to fully participate in society at ease. Yet, millions around the world still face barriers to the digital world.

Digital inclusion aims to ensure that everyone, regardless of age, income, ability, or geography, has equal access to digital technologies and the skills to use them effectively.

In this blog we will explore why this matters and ways initiatives are reducing the barriers people face with technology.

Access to devices and internet

In the UK, around 1 in 5 people lack the essential digital skills needed for daily life. And in the US, nearly 42 million people still don’t have access to reliable broadband internet.

Tech4Families, is a London based initiative, which is partnered with Currys, which distributes refurbished laptops to low income households who don’t have access to suitable devices for children aged between 4-15 years old.

It’s a simple fix, but a powerful one. Without a device and a stable connection, learning, working, and banking at ease isn’t possible.

Digital skills training

Even with the right tools, many people don’t know how to use them. This could be things as simple as sending an email, applying for a job online, or accessing health records.

The Good Things Foundation, runs digital skills programmes across community centres and libraries. Through their ‘Learn My Way’ platform, older adults, migrants, and people with disabilities get hands on training in a safe, supportive environment.

A retiree named John, who hadn’t touched a computer in 30 years, recently used his new skills to start a small online business selling handcrafted walking sticks. This is a great example of the opportunities there are online and how much technology can change your life.

Designing for everyone

True digital inclusion also means designing tech that works for everyone, including people with disabilities.

Microsoft is a leader in this space. Its Xbox Adaptive Controller, designed for gamers with limited mobility, is a brilliant example of inclusive design. Meanwhile, built in tools like screen readers, live captions, and high contrast modes make Windows products usable for a much wider audience.

Closer to home, the UK government’s Gov.uk website is often considered best practice in accessible design. It’s built to work on slow connections, with clear language and offers support for assistive technologies

Digital inclusion is about more than connectivity. It’s about dignity, opportunity, and belonging. It’s about making sure no one is excluded from the digital conversation. Addressing affordability, accessibility, skills, and support as part of a whole will make a lot of change in reducing the digital divide.

At Cavendish, we care deeply about communities and people. We strive to maintain and improve our CSR strategy, which you can see on the Cavendish website.

Check out this video of our recent community building mentoring event, TECH TALK: Elevate Together the Live Mentoring Sessions: